Gladstone, MIEarl “Babe” Winchester, 92, of Gladstone, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday October 4, 2016 surrounded by his family.
Babe was born July 25, 1924 in Escanaba the son of Harry and Rose (Brown) Winchester. Babe attended Escanaba High School before serving his country in the U.S. Army during WW II. Upon his honorable discharge in 1946 he was awarded 3 Overseas Service Bars, American Campaign Medal, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 2 Bronze Battle Stars and the World War II Victory Medal. He went on the U.P. Honor Flight to Washington D.C.
Babe was united in marriage to the former Mary DeCook on July 2, 1946 at the All Saints Catholic Church in Gladstone. In July of this year they celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.
Babe worked for the Mead Paper Company for forty plus years and he held the title of Conversion Superintendent when he retired in 1986. Following his retirement, he was asked to be a consultant to Mead Paper for an additional two years.
Babe was a member of the St. Anthony Catholic Church in Wells and AMVETS. Throughout the years, Babe enjoyed woodworking, golfing, hunting, fishing and vacationing with family and friends. He also enjoyed spending the winter months in Texas. Everyone who knew him will truly miss him.
In addition to his wife of 70 years, Mary, survivors include:
2 Sons:
Robert (Cherie) Winchester of Grand Rapids, MI
Gary (Kathy) Winchester of Gladstone
3 Grandchildren:
Robert (Jennifer) Winchester Jr. of Lexington, S.C.
Renee (David) Dowdy of Kalamazoo, MI
Michelle (Scott) Freel of Gladstone, MI
7 great grandchildren:
Carson and Kate Winchester
Lauren, Lindsey and Luke Dowdy
Jacob and Iain Freel
In addition to his parents, his grandson, Michael Winchester in 2007, 2 brothers, Harold and Clarence Winchester preceded Babe in death.
Babe’s family will receive friends on Saturday October 8, 2016 from 9:30 am to 11:15 am at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Military rites conducted by the Delta County Veterans Council will follow at 11:15 am. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 noon at the St. Thomas Catholic Church in Escanaba with Rev. Fr. Rick Courier officiating. Luncheon will follow in the St. Thomas Parish Hall. Babe will be laid to rest in the Fernwood Cemetery in Gladstone. Memorial contributions in memory of Babe may be directed to O.S.F. Hospice who were so helpful to the Winchester family.